Instructor: Gabriela Sánchez Apodaca
Wednesday - Thursday
June 4 - 5
10am - 4pm
2 sessions at Edgewood Farm

Zen Painting and Skin Papers – A Journey of Gesture and Storytelling

In this two-day workshop, participants will embark on an immersive artistic experience, combining the philosophies of Zen painting with the delicate narrative potential of Skin Papers. This workshop is designed for artists of all levels who want to explore expressive mark-making, collage, and mixed media techniques.

Day 1: Zen Painting – Presence and Gesture

The first day will focus on the essence of Zen painting, where participants will learn to embrace simplicity, fluidity, and spontaneity in their work. Through the use of black ink, water, and thin paper, we will dive into creating strokes that reflect presence and natural movement. Breathing exercises will be introduced to help participants connect their body, mind, and emotions with their creative process, encouraging intuitive and expressive mark-making.

Day 2: Skin Papers – Layering and Visual Storytelling

On the second day, we will explore the Skin Papers technique, which involves layering translucent papers to create intricate visual narratives. Participants will learn how to integrate their Zen-inspired ink work from the first day with collage techniques, creating depth and texture through wax and mixed media. We will focus on building layered stories through the delicate transparency of Skin Papers, using encaustic methods to enhance the visual effect.

Gabriela Sánchez Apodaca is a visual artist from Mexico City, born in 1972, specializing in encaustic and mixed media techniques. With a background in Textile Design and a master’s in Visual Communication, her work is deeply rooted in the exploration of texture, layering, and personal narratives, often weaving in family letters, documents, and memories into her pieces. Since 2002, Gabriela has built a solid career with solo and collective exhibitions, recognized for her technical mastery and emotional expression. Her teaching practice extends beyond the studio, offering workshops on encaustic painting and mixed media techniques in both Mexico and internationally, inspiring others through her creative process.